BJP Warns Humayun Kabir Against Proposed NH-12 Blockade Over Babri Masjid Construction

Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar cautioned Kabir against disrupting traffic on the national highway, warning that such an action could invite legal consequences.

Majumdar said blocking a national highway could attract provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including non-bailable offences. He urged the MLA not to proceed with the proposed blockade and also questioned the decision to associate the mosque's name with Mughal ruler Babur.

West Bengal Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh also criticised Kabir, dismissing his political relevance and condemning the proposed disruption.

Kabir announces 30-km highway blockade

The BJP leaders' statements came a day after Kabir announced plans to block NH-12 on December 6, when construction of the proposed mosque is expected to commence at Beldanga in Murshidabad district.

The former Trinamool Congress leader said the approximately 30-km stretch between Rejinagar and Berhampore would remain under the control of his supporters during the proposed protest.

He also indicated that supporters would take to the roads in several other locations, including Krishnanagar, Domkal, Jalangi, Sainthia, Kandi, Burdwan and Nabadwip.

Kabir had earlier challenged the administration and police to demonstrate their ability to prevent the blockade if they intended to intervene.

Babri Masjid issue brings Kabir back into political spotlight

Kabir returned to prominence after raising the issue of the Babri Masjid following his expulsion from the Trinamool Congress last year. He subsequently established his own political organisation, the Aam Janata Unnayan Party.

He announced plans to construct a mosque in his home constituency of Beldanga, linking the proposed construction to December 6, the anniversary of the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya in 1992.

The proposed construction and Kabir's announcement of a highway blockade have triggered a fresh political confrontation in West Bengal, with BJP leaders warning against disruption of public transport and law and order.